Gone are the days when family vacation used to be hectic too – waking up at 6 am, rapid sightseeing and ticking destinations off a list. What used to follow such vacations was a day off even after one’s
back home. But travel priorities today are undergoing a quiet but meaningful shift. Where once holidays were defined by packed itineraries, today’s travellers are increasingly seeking something more restorative. Comfort travel — focused on relaxation, emotional well-being and slowing down. This is now at the forefront of how people plan their vacations.
This change is largely because of the modern lifestyle. Long work hours, constant digital engagement, traffic-filled commutes and the pressure of everyday responsibilities have made city life increasingly exhausting. As a result, vacations are no longer viewed simply as opportunities to explore new places. They are becoming essential breaks from routine, noise and mental fatigue. Travellers, including us, now want holidays that help them reset, recharge and return feeling genuinely refreshed.
Instead of rushing from one tourist spot to another, people are choosing destinations where they can stay put and still feel fulfilled. It would not be wrong to say that focus has shifted from ‘doing more’ to ‘feeling relaxed and refreshed’. Natural surroundings, peaceful environments, comfortable accommodations and thoughtful experiences have become key decision-making factors when it comes to planning vacations today. It does not matter if this break from the city’s hustle and bustle is long or short – what matters is how peaceful it can be. Travellers want places that are wholesome in themselves — where the stay is as rewarding as the destination.
This is where resort-style hotels and comfort-led properties are gaining popularity. Such hotels offer more than just a room. They provide an atmosphere of calm, a sense of retreat and curated experiences that encourage guests to take a breath of fresh air. One such example is Namah Nainital, a member of Radisson Individuals Retreats, located in the serene hills of Nainital, Uttarakhand.
Overlooking the tranquil Naini Lake, Namah Nainital embodies the idea of comfortable travel. Surrounded by nature and away from the chaos of urban centres, the property offers guests the chance to disconnect from daily stress while staying immersed in comfort. The lake views, fresh mountain air and quiet setting make it an ideal escape for travellers seeking peace rather than constant movement.
What sets such properties apart is their focus on meaningful experiences. At Namah Nainital, guests are not expected to rush out for sightseeing to feel engaged. Instead, the hotel offers a variety of in-house activities designed to make their stay pleasant, comfortable and enjoyable. From star gazing sessions that reconnect guests with nature, to sports and leisure activities that encourage gentle movement, the experiences are thoughtfully paced. Tea parties during the evening also foster moments of conversation and relaxation, while cooking classes allow guests to engage creatively and learn something new.
This approach resonates strongly with families, young couples and even solo travellers who want vacations that feel personal and nurturing. The idea is simple: when the environment itself is comforting, there is no pressure to constantly seek entertainment elsewhere.
Speaking about this evolving travel mindset, Ankur Vashist, Assistant Front Office Manager, Namah Resort Nainital, shared: “We’ve seen a clear shift in guest expectations. Travellers today are not just looking for a destination, they are looking for a package that offers everything at one place. Comfort, calm and personalised experiences matter more than ever. At Namah Nainital, our aim is to create a space where guests can truly slow down, whether that’s by enjoying the lake view, participating in activities or simply taking a quiet moment for themselves.”
This growing trend for comfort travel reflects a deeper understanding of self-care. Today, vacations are no longer indulgences, they are necessary pauses that help people maintain balance in fast-paced lives.
